Top 10 home décor trends for 2007

Interior designers and industry experts share their predictions as to what will be hot in home décor in the coming year. Certain themes will continue from previous years, with some gaining momentum as they become more widely accepted. Still others will explode onto the scene as fresh, inventive options for today’s decorating enthusiasts. All of them will be woven together seamlessly by the thread of personalization and comfort.

Color

Color is key with red taking a turn to the softer side with offerings of peach, melon, and muted yellows and oranges. Blues, greens, aquas, purples and pinks will continue to evolve, in both brilliant and more subtle hues. Browns will remain strong as backdrops for more potent splashes of color for impact and drama.

Style

Formal and traditional decorating styles will enjoy new popularity with younger homeowners, as GenXers look to historically inspired design as an anchor. Pairings of traditional and casual, or traditional and modern will also become increasingly main stream.

Textures

Anything goes with regard to textiles — from opulent layering of shimmering tones and earthy textural weaves, to sleek modern and retro chic. Textured leathers, wovens and textures made from resins intertwined with bronzed and antique silver metallics will add a glimpse of glamour.

Wall Treatments

Hand-painted murals, printed murals, wallpaper, upholstery, wood paneling or walls clad with a “skin” of tiles or mirror will be big this year. Sheathing rooms with texture, warmth and glamour is hot.

Furniture

Grain, imperfection, age and character will continue to dominate wood finishes, with a focus on time-proven styles rendered in finishes that emphasize the natural quality of wood.

Cabinets

Kitchen and bathroom cabinetry will continue to boast a more customized, furniture approach. Cabinets will take on a more casual look by receiving painted and glaze finishes, and may also feature a combination of wood, glass, stone and metal (including wire mesh in cabinet doors).

Metal Influences

Stainless steel’s dominance as the “in” metal is over. Warm-toned, oil-rubbed bronze and copper will become more prevalent in hardware, plumbing and lighting fixtures, and large and small appliances. Also, the shiny, mirror finish of chrome will make a strong comeback.

Comfort

The relaxed yet ultra-stylish cottage look has recently taken off. This cozy ambiance fosters the prevailing theme that every room should be a room of comfort and relaxation.